ScienceDaily: Technology - June 03, 2024
Top technology research news
Martian meteorites deliver a trove of information on Red Planet's structure
Mars has a distinct structure in its mantle and crust with discernible reservoirs, and this is known thanks to meteorites that scientists have analyzed. These results are important for understanding not only how Mars formed and evolved, but also for providing precise data that can inform recent NASA missions like Insight and Perseverance and the Mars Sample Return.
Children's visual experience may hold key to better computer vision training
A novel, human-inspired approach to training artificial intelligence (AI) systems to identify objects and navigate their surroundings could set the stage for the development of more advanced AI systems to explore extreme environments or distant worlds, according to new research.
AI-controlled stations can charge electric cars at a personal price
As more and more people drive electric cars, congestion and queues can occur when many people need to charge at the same time. A new study shows how AI-controlled charging stations, through smart algorithms, can offer electric vehicle users personalized prices, and thus minimize both price and waiting time for customers. But the researchers point to the importance of taking the ethical issues seriously, as there is a risk that the artificial intelligence exploits information from motorists.
Glimpses of a volcanic world: New telescope images of Jupiter's moon Io rival those from spacecraft
Combining a new imaging instrument with the powerful adaptive optics capabilities of the Large Binocular Telescope, astronomers have captured a volcanic event on Jupiter's moon Io at a resolution never before achieved with Earth-based observations.
Image: Whitelion61/Shutterstock.com
Scientists develop most sensitive way to observe single molecules
A technical achievement marks a significant advance in the burgeoning field of observing individual molecules without the aid of fluorescent labels. While these labels are useful in many applications, they alter molecules in ways that can obscure how they naturally interact with one another. The new label-free method makes the molecules so easy to detect, it is almost as if they had labels.
Medium and mighty: Intermediate-mass black holes can survive in globular clusters
New research demonstrated a possible formation mechanism of intermediate-mass black holes in globular clusters, star clusters that could contain tens of thousands or even millions of tightly packed stars. The first ever star-by-star massive cluster-formation simulations revealed that sufficiently dense molecular clouds, the 'birthing nests' of star clusters, can give birth to very massive stars that evolve into intermediate-mass black holes.
A free AI-powered website helps clinicians more effectively match patients with the optimal antidepressant using big data.
New method makes hydrogen from solar power and agricultural waste
Engineers have helped design a new method to make hydrogen gas from water using only solar power and agricultural waste such as manure or husks. The method reduces the energy needed to extract hydrogen from water by 600%, creating new opportunities for sustainable, climate-friendly chemical production.
AI saving humans from the emotional toll of monitoring hate speech
A team of researchers have developed a new machine-learning method that detects hate speech on social media platforms with 88 per cent accuracy, saving employees from hundreds of hours of emotionally damaging work.
Social media use and sleep duration connected to brain activity in teens
A new study found a distinct relationship between sleep duration, social media usage, and brain activation across brain regions that are key for executive control and reward processing.
NASA's James Webb Space Telescope finds most distant known galaxy
Over the last two years, scientists have used NASA's James Webb Space Telescope to explore what astronomers refer to as Cosmic Dawn -- the period in the first few hundred million years after the big bang where the first galaxies were born.
The AI paradox: Building creativity to protect against AI
Cultivating creativity in schools is vital for a future driven by artificial intelligence (AI). But while teachers embrace creativity as an essential 21st century skill, a lack of valid and reliable creativity tests means schools struggle to assess student achievement. Now, a new machine-learning model is providing teachers with access to high-quality, fit-for-purpose creativity tests, that can score assessments in a fraction of the time and a fraction of the cost.
Combining simulations and experiments to get the best out of Fe3Al
Researchers combined computer simulations and transmission electron microscopy experiments to better understand the ordering mobility and formation of microstructure domains in Fe3Al alloy. They were able to correlate structural changes with heat treatment to understand how particular mechanical behavior can be achieved. This is expected to allow the superelastic properties of Fe3Al to harnessed for the 3D printing of construction materials for absorbing seismic activity.
Innovative bird-eye-inspired camera developed for enhanced object detection
The eyes of raptors such as eagles can accurately perceive prey from kilometers away. Is it possible to model the camera technology after the bird's eyes? Researchers developed a new type of camera, which was inspired by the structures and functions of bird's eyes.
High groundwater depletion risk in South Korea in 2080s
Team utilizes advanced statistical techniques to project the future groundwater depletion risk.
The thinnest lens on Earth, enabled by excitons
Lenses are used to bend and focus light. Normal lenses rely on their curved shape to achieve this effect, but physicists have made a flat lens of only three atoms thick which relies on quantum effects. This type of lens could be used in future augmented reality glasses.
New anti-counterfeit technique packs two light-reactive images into one material
Growing concern about data theft and counterfeiting has inspired increasingly sophisticated security technologies, like hologram seals, that can help verify the authenticity of currency, passports and other important documents. However, as security technologies evolve, so do the techniques criminals use to get past them. To stay one step ahead of these bad actors, researchers report that they have developed a new photopatterning technique that creates two light-reactive images on one material.
AIM algorithm enhances super-resolution microscope images in real time
When trying to measure molecular structures with nanometer precision, every bit of noise shows up in the data: someone walking past the microscope, tiny vibrations in the building and even the traffic outside. A new processing technique removes noise from optical microscope data in real time, allowing scientists to track individual molecules over 10 times more precisely than was possible before.
Generative AI to protect image privacy
Image privacy could be protected with the use of generative artificial intelligence. Researchers created a system which replaces parts of images that might threaten confidentiality with visually similar but AI-generated alternatives. Named 'generative content replacement,' in tests, 60% of viewers couldn't tell which images had been altered. The researchers intend for this system to provide a more visually cohesive option for image censoring, which helps to preserve the narrative of the image while protecting privacy.
Researchers apply quantum computing methods to protein structure prediction
Researchers recently published findings that could lay the groundwork for applying quantum computing methods to protein structure prediction.
Theoretical quantum speedup with the quantum approximate optimization algorithm
Researchers demonstrated a quantum algorithmic speedup with the quantum approximate optimization algorithm, laying the groundwork for advancements in telecommunications, financial modeling, materials science and more.
Modular, scalable hardware architecture for a quantum computer
Researchers demonstrated a scalable, modular hardware platform that integrates thousands of interconnected qubits onto a customized integrated circuit. This 'quantum-system-on-chip' (QSoC) architecture enables them to precisely tune and control a dense array of qubits.
Editing without 'cutting': Molecular mechanisms of new gene-editing tool revealed
New research has determined the spatial structure of various processes of a novel gene-editing tool called 'prime editor.' Functional analysis based on these structures also revealed how a 'prime editor' could achieve reverse transcription, synthesizing DNA from RNA, without 'cutting' both strands of the double helix. Clarifying these molecular mechanisms contributes greatly to designing gene-editing tools accurate enough for gene therapy treatments.
Engineers establish the link between oxygen and graphene quality and present an oxygen-free chemical vapor deposition method (OF-CVD) that can reproducibly create high-quality samples for large-scale production. The graphene they synthesized with their new method proved nearly identical to exfoliated samples and was capable of producing the fractional quantum Hall effect.
Bio-inspired cameras and AI help drivers detect pedestrians and obstacles faster
Artificial intelligence (AI) combined with a novel bio-inspired camera achieves 100 times faster detection of pedestrians and obstacles than current automotive cameras. This important step for computer vision and AI and can greatly improve the safety of automotive systems and self-driving cars.
Moon orbiting 'dinky' asteroid is actually two tiny moons stuck together
The moon orbiting the asteroid Dinkinesh is actually two tiny moons stuck together. Collectively called 'Selam,' the two moonlets bring new insight into the complex processes behind planetary formation and evolution.
The case of the missing black holes
Researchers have applied the well-understood and highly verified quantum field theory, usually applied to the study of the very small, to a new target, the early universe. Their exploration led to the conclusion that there ought to be far fewer miniature black holes than most models suggest, though observations to confirm this should soon be possible. The specific kind of black hole in question could be a contender for dark matter.
AI helps medical professionals read confusing EEGs to save lives
Researchers have developed an assistive machine learning model that greatly improves the ability of medical professionals to read the electroencephalography (EEG) charts of intensive care patients. Because EEG readings are the only method for knowing when unconscious patients are in danger of suffering a seizure or are having seizure-like events, the computational tool could help save thousands of lives each year.
Electrochromic films -- like sunglasses for your windows?
Advances in electrochromic coatings may bring us closer to environmentally friendly ways to keep inside spaces cool. Like eyeglasses that darken to provide sun protection, the optical properties of these transparent films can be tuned with electricity to block out solar heat and light. Now, researchers report demonstrating a new electrochromic film design based on metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) that quickly and reliably switch from transparent to glare-diminishing green to thermal-insulating red.
Researchers create materials with unique combo of stiffness, thermal insulation
Researchers have demonstrated the ability to engineer materials that are both stiff and capable of insulating against heat. This combination of properties is extremely unusual and holds promise for a range of applications, such as the development of new thermal insulation coatings for electronic devices.
New technique offers more precise maps of the Moon's surface
A new study may help redefine how scientists map the surface of the Moon, making the process more streamlined and precise than ever before.
Solving the problems of proton-conducting perovskites for next-generation fuel cells
As a newly developed perovskite with a large amount of intrinsic oxygen vacancies, BaSc0.8W0.2O2.8 achieves high proton conduction at low and intermediate temperatures, report scientists. By the donor doping of large W6+, this material can take up more water to increase its proton concentration, as well as reduce the proton trapping through electrostatic repulsion between the dopant and proton. These findings could pave the way to the rational design of novel perovskites for protonic ceramic fuel cells (PCFCs) and electrolysis cells (PCECs).
Biobased building materials less sustainable than concrete in South Africa, experts find
Scientists have discovered that mycelium composites, biobased materials made from fungi and agricultural residues, can have a greater environmental impact than conventional fossil-fuel-based materials due to the high amount of electricity involved in their production.
Study is step towards energy-efficient quantum computing in magnets
Researchers have managed to generate propagating spin waves at the nanoscale and discovered a novel pathway to modulate and amplify them. Their discovery could pave the way for the development of dissipation free quantum information technologies. As the spin waves do not involve electric currents these chips will be free from associated losses of energy. The rapidly growing popularity of artificial intelligence comes with an increasing desire for fast and energy efficient computing devices and calls for novel ways to store and process information. The electric currents in conventional devices suffer from losses of energy and subsequent heating of the environment.
Public have no difficulty getting to grips with an extra thumb, study finds
Researchers have shown that members of the public have little trouble in learning very quickly how to use a third thumb -- a controllable, prosthetic extra thumb -- to pick up and manipulate objects. The team tested the robotic device on a diverse range of participants, which they say is essential for ensuring new technologies are inclusive and can work for everyone.
Polymeric films protect anodes from sulfide solid electrolytes
Researchers unveil the interaction between polymeric materials and sulfide solid electrolytes.
Performance of eco-friendly cooling applications enhanced
Researchers have developed a sustainable and controllable strategy to manipulate interfacial heat transfer, paving the way for improving the performance of eco-friendly cooling in various applications such as electronics, buildings and solar panels.
Wind farms are cheaper than you think -- and could have prevented Fukushima, says global review
Offshore wind could have prevented the Fukushima disaster, according to a review of wind energy.
What are the risks of hydrogen vehicles in tunnels?
A team has analyzed the risk and damage potential of hydrogen vehicles in tunnels and derived recommendations. Their conclusion? Any damage would be extensive, but its occurrence is unlikely.
'The magic of making electricity from metals and air' The vexing carbonate has achieved it!
Team develops a high-energy, high-efficiency all-solid-state Na-air battery platform.
Tracking animals without markers in the wild
Researchers developed a computer vision framework for posture estimation and identity tracking which they can use in indoor environments as well as in the wild. They have thus taken an important step towards markerless tracking of animals in the wild using computer vision and machine learning.
Inexpensive microplastic monitoring through porous materials and machine learning
Optical analysis and machine learning techniques can now readily detect microplastics in marine and freshwater environments using inexpensive porous metal substrates.
Mystery of 'slow' solar wind unveiled by Solar Orbiter mission
Scientists have come a step closer to identifying the mysterious origins of the 'slow' solar wind, using data collected during the Solar Orbiter spacecraft's first close journey to the Sun.
Research finds improving AI large language models helps better align with human brain activity
With generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) transforming the social interaction landscape in recent years, large language models (LLMs), which use deep-learning algorithms to train GenAI platforms to process language, have been put in the spotlight. A recent study found that LLMs perform more like the human brain when being trained in more similar ways as humans process language, which has brought important insights to brain studies and the development of AI models.
Harnessing green energy from plants depends on their circadian rhythms
Plant hydraulics drive the biological process that moves fluids from roots to plant stems and leaves, creating streaming electric potential, or voltage, in the process. A study closely examined the differences in voltage caused by the concentrations of ions, types of ions, and pH of the fluid plants transport, tying the voltage changes to the plant's circadian rhythm that causes adjustments day and night. According to the authors, this consistent, cyclic voltage creation could be harnessed as an energy source.
Close to 1 in 2 surveyed say they would use air taxis in the future
Through a study of 1,002 participants, scientists have found that almost half (45.7 per cent) say they intend to use air taxis when they become available, with over one-third (36.2 per cent) planning to do so regularly. According to the findings, the intention to take autonomous air taxis is associated with factors such as trust in the AI technology deployed in air taxis, hedonic motivation (the fun or pleasure derived from using technology), performance expectancy (the degree to which users expect that using the system will benefit them), and news media attention (the amount of attention paid to news about air taxis).
Apple versus donut: How the shape of a tokamak impacts the limits of the edge of the plasma
A new model for ballooning instabilities in apple-shaped fusion vessels considers the height and width of the plasma's edge.
Combating carbon footprint: Novel reactor system converts carbon dioxide into usable fuel
Boilers are a major source of greenhouse gas emissions. In a recent study, researchers developed a method to convert CO2 emissions from small boilers into methane, which makes use of an optimized reactor design that evenly distributes the CO2 feed. This, in turn, results in significantly lower temperature increments and a boost in methane production. This innovative technique could pave the way for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.